Excitement is brewing for the upcoming season. While newer athletes are simply thrilled to see their names make team rosters, veteran players expectantly check the stats to chart their course. The varsity basketball team looks rather different this upcoming season. In fact, familiar faces of last season have graduated, transferred schools, or pursued other endeavors.

“The team is basically a whole new group of people,” said junior Rontrell Gentry. “Because of that, this year, I think that there is more brotherhood.”

Unexpectedly lost to another school, sophomore Ryan Spears’s former position as U. City’s top point guard is up for grabs. Ready to fill Spear’s position is senior Daryl Black. According to Gentry, Black has acted as more of a leader.

In addition, forward Omar Foster transferred in November, leaving the team more vulnerable without one of their expected starters. However, senior forward Marvin Bullard finds that others on the team are willingly picking up the slack.

“I’ve been playing with Omar by my side since freshman year, but this year without him has started off really well with forwards Rontrell Gentry, Keondre Bledsoe and Keonn Smith filling in,” said Bullard. “These three are filling the role better than he ever did. And they contribute more dedication and stability to the team.”

Despite the losses, it seems as if the varsity basketball team still plans to dominate next season. At the Quincy tournament over Thanksgiving, the Lions finished 2-1, losing only to Quincy. The wins are setting a tone for a productive season.

“I definitely expect to go to districts,” said Gentry.